Finding just the right work height for your bench and your power tools can make your time in the shop even more enjoyable. A recent post in WoodNet – The optimum height of a woodworker – got me hard at work copying and pasting smart ideas and methods from WoodNetters.

I found six formulas there, plus one about optimal workbench height from a woodworking tips site. I feel sure there’s more stuff out there on this, maybe from OSHA or something. Anyone have any ideas about the methodologies or science behind finding the best height for tools? I don’t think I know the right terms to search for.1) Three Tool Height Zones“The are at least three working height zones: Low (waist?) for power (e.g. TS, jointer, raising panels on RT (hence I also have RT on TS).

Middle (elbow height) for in-between power control and fine motor control, lathe, most table routing, etc.

High (chest) for fine control, e.g., some hand and table routing,”
-docksider

2) 6’4″ Formula“I’m 6’4″ and have some back issues having been broadsided by a truck so bending is an issue at times. Here’s my formula.

Lathe – headstock centerline is even with your bent elbow when standing straight.
RAS & TS – table is 4″ to 5″ below the bent elbow.
BS – One I have at 43″ and the other at 48″.
My Stationary Planer and Molding machine I raised up about 6″.”
-hcbph

3) Hands Flat at 45 Degrees“I have found that if it involves a bench, such as work bench, table saw, band saw, router table, etc. I like the surface at a height that when standing straight up, I have to bend my elbows so that my forearm at 45 degree allows me to place my hands flat on the surface. This seems to negate the back pain issue.”
-mikerupp

4) 6’3″ = 41″“I’m 6’3″ with back problems, and have all my tools at 41”. “
-GNP

5) 6’2″ = 36-39″“I’m 6’2″ and find 36-39″ a good working height. More delicate work should be higher.”
-ned

6) Keep Everything High“My drill press table is right at shoulder height. Works well for me.

Good reasons for high tools, tables & benches:

1.) Close to eyes
2.) Less bending
3.) More storage underneath (Whether you need it or not)

Negatives,

1.) Lifting everything up a bit higher”
-Red Sawman

7) Measure to Your Wrist Crease“We’ve used a lot of methods to determine the best height for a bench. But one simple method seems to give the best results. Just measure the distance from the floor to the crease on the inside of your wrist.”

Sirs/Madam:
I have a plan for a mobil planer stand that could be used for other tools too. In appreciation of using a couple of the free plans you offer and in the spirit of sharing I would like to know how I go about submitting a sketch and description to you for publishing on your site.
It may take me a while to put it all together and to submit it to you as I want to complete the urethane finish before submitting the sketch and photos.
Sincerely,
Forrest Lewis